NBA Notes: Spurs, Victor Wembanyama, Magic, Franz Wagner, Hornets

Spurs

The Spurs were without Victor Wembanyama on Thursday night, and it showed.

Wembanyama was a late scratch before San Antonio’s loss to the Nuggets because of soreness in his right ankle, according to Tom Orsborn of the San Antonio Express-News. The star big man even went through warmups while wearing a brace before the team ultimately decided to hold him out.

Coach Mitch Johnson said the call came down to caution.

“It was a close call because there was a chance he could play,” Johnson said. “But it was clear it was the right decision. There was nothing we wanted to risk. That’s kind of been the north star of every decision we’ve made with his health.”

Johnson added the team does not believe the ankle issue is anything long term.

It marked Wembanyama’s first missed game since Jan. 30, ending a stretch of 30 straight appearances, the longest of his NBA career. Without their defensive anchor, the Spurs watched a 20-point lead disappear and allowed two 40-point quarters.

Johnson said he is hopeful Wembanyama can return Saturday against the Hornets, though nothing is certain yet.

“I do think there’s a chance,” Johnson said. “But it’s going to be a wait and see thing.”

Magic

Forward Franz Wagner took a small but notable step forward for the Magic.

According to Jason Beede of the Orlando Sentinel, Wagner participated in an on court workout during Wednesday’s shootaround for the first time since the All Star break.

Coach Jamahl Mosley said Wagner did some light shooting but has not yet been cleared for contact.

Hornets

The Hornets are quietly building confidence away from home.

Charlotte’s road win Wednesday over the Kings marked the team’s 12th victory in its last 13 road games, as relayed by Roderick Boone of the Charlotte Observer.

Coach Charles Lee said the stretch has helped the group treat each game with postseason urgency.

“All these games feel like they have a little bit more intensity and meaning,” Lee said. “They have a little more physicality to them. We’re almost looking at every game as a postseason game. That’s how you build your habits. That time of year is for the prepared.”